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Sustainable Transportation

The City of Cleveland is committed to becoming a more bicycle and pedestrian-friendly community, while reducing emissions from driven vehicles. These commitments, combined with world-class service provided by the Greater Cleveland RTA, are putting Cleveland on a path to a truly sustainable transportation network.

As one sign of progress, the League of American Bicyclists has recognized Cleveland as a Bronze level Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC). The Bronze BFC award highlights our community’s commitment to improving conditions for bicycling through investment in bicycling promotion, education programs, infrastructure and pro-bicycling policies.

The City of Cleveland Complete and Green Streets Taskforce along with Bike Cleveland and the YMCA created a Complete and Green Streets Typology which categorizes all Cleveland streets and creates priorities for all modes of transportation including bicycling, walking, transit and vehicular traffic. More >>

In 2016, Cleveland celebrated the Year of Sustainable Transportation by supporting healthier forms of getting around the city. There are many actions Clevelanders can take at home, at work and in the community to help grow sustainable transportation. Actions include biking, walking, taking transit, carpooling, car sharing and much more! More >>

The City of Cleveland’s Bikeway Implementation Plan is designed to increase the number of bikeway miles by 250% by the end of 2017. The plan builds on Cleveland’s existing bike infrastructure and leverages the City’s five year capital improvement program (CIP) to accomplish this significant increase while adding minimal cost to street projects. The overall goal is to provide cycling amenities in every Cleveland neighborhood, whether for transportation or recreational use. More >>

Complete and Green Streets The City of Cleveland passed a Complete and Green Streets ordinance in September 2011. In effect as of January 2012, the ordinance requires implementation of sustainable policies and guidelines in all construction projects within the public right of way. This ordinance will create a walking, biking and public transportation-friendly city while reducing environmental impact by incorporating green infrastructure. Some characteristics of Complete and Green Streets include enhanced transit waiting environments, bicycle lanes and signs, pedestrial refuges, public art, waste containers, crosswalk enhancements, ADA accessibility, way-finding signage, permeable pavement, green space or trees and multi-use paths. 2016 Complete and Green Streets Report

Bicycle Transportation Safety In June 2012, City Council passed a bicycle transportation safety ordinance to help protect cyclists on the road. Among other features, the policy requires motorists overtaking a bicycle proceeding in the same direction to leave a safe distance, not less than 3 feet, when passing (commercial vehicles required to leave at least 6 feet).

Anti-Idling The City of Cleveland adopted an anti-idling policy in 2006 for the City’s fleet that states no City vehicle or piece of equipment be idled during non-emergency situations. This policy was followed up by an anti-idling ordinance in 2009.

Bicycle Parking This zoning code update establishes requirements for bicycle parking to ensure adequate and safe facilities to accommodate bicycle parking, and to encourage use of bicycles for travel as an alternative to motorized vehicles.

Cleveland Bike ShareIn 2013, Cleveland's Bike Share Task Force, with funding from the City of Cleveland and YMCA, completed a bike share feasibility study and implementation plan for operating a system in the city. The City is now working with Bike Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, NOACA, and other stakeholders to implement this plan. UH Bikes, Cleveland’s bike share system, launched in 2016 in partnership with Bike Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, NOACA, University Hospitals, and other stakeholders.

Bike sharing in urban areas can positively affect how residents, employees, and visitors experience a city. Bike sharing allows more people to access cycling for short trips, replaces vehicle use, provides for fitness and recreation, and is beneficial for tourists and residents alike to explore a city.

Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry – Metro Metal Works (Bike Rack Program) Metro Metal Works, funded through City of Cleveland and Dominion Foundation grants, is an innovative social enterprise that aims to promote bicycling as a sustainable and affordable means of transportation. The program also trains individuals from the homeless and community re-entry populations in employable skills. Those wishing to purchase a bike rack may contact them at 216.658.7218 or via email at sales@metrometalworks.com.

The Bike Rack Located at the Gateway Complex, the Bike Rack is built to LEED standards and features 50 bicycle storage facilities, showers and related facilities for commuters.

The City of Cleveland is actively participating in an Electric Vehicles infrastructure readiness planning project titled ‘Charging Forward with Electric Vehicles in Ohio’, led by Clean Fuels Ohio. As part of this planning process, an EV awareness workshop was co-hosted by the City of Cleveland, Clean Fuels Ohio and Cuyahoga County in April 2012.

Biodiesel Pilot The City initiated a Biodiesel Pilot project, which will test a 20% blend of biodiesel in the fleet. Biodiesel is comprised of processed vegetable oil or animal fat. Working with Earthday Coalition, NASA, and the Ohio EPA, the City promotes the use of locally grown and manufactured biofuels to reduce the use of conventional diesel fuels and harmful emissions.

The Office of Sustainability leverages Cleveland's wealth of assets by collaborating with the community to improve the economic, environmental, and social well-being of its citizens. To lead by example, the Office develops and implements policies and practices with City departments to embrace a culture of sustainability.